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Psoriasis

Also known as: Psoriatic dermatitis, Chronic plaque disease

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition causing thick, scaly patches of inflamed skin.

Signs & Symptoms

  • Thick red patches
  • Silver-white plaques
  • Itching and burning
  • Bleeding with trauma
  • Nail pitting

Causes

  • Immune system dysfunction
  • Genetic predisposition
  • Environmental triggers
  • Stress
  • Infections
  • Certain medications

Risk Factors

  • Family history
  • Streptococcal infection
  • Emotional stress
  • Certain medications
  • Smoking
  • Alcohol consumption

When to See a Doctor

See a dermatologist if you develop persistent red, scaly patches or if psoriasis significantly impacts quality of life.

Treatment Options

Treatment options vary by individual. Consult a dermatologist for a personalised plan.

  • Topical corticosteroids
  • Topical vitamin D analogs
  • Phototherapy (UVB, PUVA)
  • Systemic medications
  • Biologic agents
  • Combination therapy

Understanding Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic, autoimmune-mediated inflammatory skin disease affecting 1-3% of the population. It results from dysfunctional immune response triggering accelerated skin cell turnover.

Pathophysiology

Immune Dysfunction: T-cell mediated immune response causes chronic inflammation

Accelerated Keratinocyte Turnover: Skin cells replace every 3-7 days instead of normal 28 days

Systemic Involvement: Can affect joints, nails, and other organs

Clinical Presentation

Plaque Psoriasis (80%): Well-demarcated, erythematous plaques with silvery scale

Guttate Psoriasis: Small papules following infection

Inverse Psoriasis: Plaques in skin folds

Erythrodermic Psoriasis: Widespread erythema and scaling; serious variant

Pustular Psoriasis: Pustules with erythema; severe form

Associated Conditions

  • Psoriatic arthritis (10-30% of patients)
  • Metabolic syndrome
  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Depression and anxiety
  • Obesity

Triggers

Stress: Major trigger for flares and progression

Infections: Particularly group A streptococcus

Medications: Beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, NSAIDs

Alcohol: Worsens disease, especially in men

Smoking: Associated with increased severity

Trauma: Lesions appear at sites of injury (Koebner phenomenon)

Impact on Quality of Life

“When to see a doctor”: If persistent plaques develop or psoriasis impacts your daily life, education and treatment are important.

Treatment Approach

Dr. Dr. Sanjay Agrawal provides comprehensive psoriasis management customized to disease extent, location, and impact on quality of life.

Schedule your psoriasis consultation today.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Agrawal, MBBS, MD (Dermatology) —

Have this condition?

Call the clinic or visit Dr. Sanjay Agrawal directly for a proper diagnosis and personalised treatment plan.

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FAQs about Psoriasis

Is psoriasis contagious?
No. Psoriasis is not contagious and cannot be transmitted from person to person through contact.
What triggers psoriasis flares?
Common triggers include stress, infections (especially streptococcal), certain medications, alcohol, and physical trauma to skin.
Can psoriasis be cured?
Current treatments manage symptoms effectively but there's no permanent cure. Most patients achieve good control with appropriate treatment.
Is psoriasis related to eczema?
Both are chronic inflammatory skin conditions but are different diseases with different causes and treatments.
Can diet affect psoriasis?
Some patients report improvement with certain diet modifications. Generally, balanced diet and healthy weight help manage symptoms.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Consult a qualified dermatologist for diagnosis and treatment. Individual results vary.
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